Important Facts about Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria. This disease can linger for long periods of time from years to decades if not treated properly. It is also highly contagious, which can also be contracted by kissing or bodily contact. Syphilis causes, complications like arthritis, brain damage and even blindness. Symptoms and signs are further divided into four stages: primary, secondary, latent and tertiary.

Primary stage shows a single to multiple number of shares that can manifest where the infection entered the body. Secondary stage shows sores in the palm and soles of the feet, which can last for six weeks to six months. Individuals infected by secondary stage syphilis experience an itchiness called “copper penny” rash which manifests in the palms and feet. Warts can also appear in the groin of the individual and white patches inside the mouth. Furthermore, secondary syphilis can also induce weight loss.

The third stage, which is the latent part, is the dormant stage of the infection. This is the stage where the symptoms and signs of the primary and secondary syphilis will disappear. The late or tertiary stage syphilis will affect the muscle coordination which can lead to paralysis. Mental disorders like dementia can also manifest in this stage. At the late stage, organs can be severely damaged and can easily cause death.

Syphilis can be diagnosed by blood testing and can be treated by taking antibiotics like benzathine penicillin G into the muscles. Pregnant woman, which has syphilis can spread the bacteria to the infant. This is called congenital syphilis and can cause a lot of abnormalities and even death to the child. Avoiding sexual contact is the only way to avoid syphilis. Using latex condoms can prevent the contraction of the infection from the sores.